Last Thursday, I was honored to be one of the Diversity keynote speakers, along side Stedman Graham at the 19th annual Arizona SHRM state conference at Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort. Hundreds of Arizona human resource (HR) professionals met to gain the latest information in the HR industry. The sold out crowd may be a sign that the economy may finally be improving.

HR professionals typically manage the hiring and training efforts within organizations. This is the largest HR ­focused event in the state and an increase in both attendance and exhibitor/sponsorships show signs that local companies and hiring trends could be growing. The HR Professionals are building their Inspirational Community, which is a community that accomplishes great things, because the culture inspires growth and creativity.

“More than ever before, the HR profession is having a significant impact on the sustained success of businesses and organizations throughout the country.” said Nobu Hara, Arizona SHRM State Council Director. “The complexities of Affordable Care Act, talent acquisition, retention and training, all heavily rely on the ability for HR leaders and professionals to strategically meet these challenges.”

The addition of big name keynote speakers also shows support of growth within the industry. In addition to Stedman and myself as keynote speakers. The conference attendees were delivered keynote messages from Stuart Crabb with Facebook, Keith Ferrazzi with Ferrazzi Greenlight and James Key Lim with Delivering Happiness.

“We are so honored to present a star-­studded line up of keynotes this year”, said Julie Armstrong, Arizona SHRM 2013 State Conference Director. “These speakers have no shortage of options when it comes to speaking events. The record numbers and statewide interest we have seen this year have attracted some of the best in the circuit and for that, we are really proud.”

The event attracted over 800 human resource professionals, feature over 55 breakout sessions, 5 keynotes and numerous networking events totaling over 1000 people. The Arizona SHRM is truly an engaging and inspirational community. They are the State Council for the national Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM). Representing 7 local chapters, Arizona SHRM supports and promotes the profession of human resource management state-wide.